Sunderland are currently preparing for their third season back in the Championship and fans are expecting to see huge improvements next term as new boss Regis Le Bris settles into life in the North East.
The Frenchman will be looking to bolster the Black Cats squad ahead of the team’s opening game of the season and will hope to assemble a group that is capable of earning a place back into the top-flight after suffering relegation in 2017.
Sunderland will have money to invest in the team this summer, but could also gain some vital experience through the free agent market - with some potential out-of-contact gems becoming available from the Premier League this summer. With that in mind we take a look at 10 potential free agent options that Sunderland could target.
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5. Dele Alli - Everton
Once regarded as one of the finest talents in English football. The 28-year-old is searching for a new club after the expiration of his Everton contract. | Getty Images
6. Shola Shoretire - Manchester United
The 20-year-old was once on the books at Sunderland and Newcastle before joining Man United. Is now a free agent after making just three league appearances for the Red Devils. | Manchester United via Getty Imag
7. Steven Alzate - Brighton
The 25-year-old is a free agent after making 43 Premier League appearances for Brighton across seven years. | Getty Images
8. Dennis Praet - Leicester City
Made 81 appearances in five years for Leicester and helped them to promotion last term. The 15-time Belgium international was another to leave at the end of his contract last season. | AFP via Getty Images